Manila: The Office of the Ombudsman has stated the importance of a careful examination of the late Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral's computer files. The Office emphasized that files from third-party sources hold less evidentiary value compared to those from government agencies owning the original computers and storage devices.

According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano addressed the public interest and speculation surrounding the so-called Cabral files. In a video message, Clavano stressed the need to establish facts, uphold transparency, and hold accountable anyone found guilty of misconduct. The Office of the Ombudsman has been approached by multiple parties claiming to have copies of the files, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between original evidence and secondary copies.

Clavano pointed out that the most reliable documents come from agencies and individuals with custody and control over the original files. Evidence directly sourced from these entities carries more evidentiary weight than external copies. Clavano noted that soft copies held by third parties, especially those in formats like Word or Excel, can lose credibility due to potential alterations or manipulation.

The so-called Cabral files are part of a broader investigation into alleged irregular flood control projects. Clavano emphasized the need to examine whether these projects were implemented or merely ghost projects. He clarified that an insertion is not inherently illegal unless it involves fraud, misuse of public funds, or non-existent projects.

In a significant development, the Office now has custody of the central processing unit (CPU) from the government-issued personal computer assigned to Cabral. Clavano described this as a critical step, enabling the investigation to proceed with an original piece of digital evidence. A digital forensic examination of the CPU is planned, to be conducted transparently and in coordination with the Commission on Audit, DPWH, the Office of the Ombudsman, and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group, ensuring the integrity of the process.